Early Childhood Education & Play (QQI Level 5)

The purpose of this award is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to ensure that each child’s learning development and well-being is facilitated through the provision of opportunities, experiences, activities, interaction, materials and equipment, having regard to the age and stage of development of the child and the child’s cultural context.

This module will:

• Outline the types, stages  patterns and purposes of children’s play.
• Describe a range of  theories of play in the context of children’s education to include Psychoanalytic theories (Freud, Winnicott) and Constructivist theories (Piaget, Vygotsky).
• Evaluate the role of the adult in children’s play.
• Explore a child lead approach to meeting the play and educational requirements of children.
• Describe different approaches to curriculum development and implementation in the ECCE setting.
• Assess the value of equipment, materials, play spaces, both indoors and outdoor in the ECCE setting.
• Use a range of reading and storytelling techniques appropriate to different stages of children’s development and cultural background.
• Select relevant play activities and materials appropriate to children’s interest and stage of development and cultural background.
• Implement appropriate curricula which promotes learning and the holistic development of the child
• Reflect on own role and responsibilities when supporting children in their play.